Comfort Supply's Blog by Clay Blevins

HVAC Web Apps and the 21st Century Tool Belt

2012-01-26T14:06:00.000-06:00

Comfort Supply has enjoyed sharing a new toolset to make life easier for HVAC industry professionals: HVAC Web Apps. We've teamed up with KB Watson Enterprises to provide contractors with a suite of cloud-based calculators. These tools are designed to simplify the most common tasks performed at worksites by HVAC comfort advisors, system designers, installers and service technicians.

The platform of cloud-based Web apps – including residential load calculation, residential equipment selection, residential duct design and more – runs on any device with a Web browser. Even better, you don't have to have an iPhone or an iPad to use it. Any mobile device with an Internet connection will do.

Watching the trend of fewer and fewer technicians carrying bulky laptops to worksites has been a sign of the times in our industry. Devices such as iPhones, Android smart phones and tablets have become tools on the HVAC technician’s belt.

We're mindful of that at Comfort Supply, and we've sought to evolve with new technologies like the iPad and HVAC Web Apps. We're a better, more efficient company for it.

Our own sales pro Wayne Dube had this to say about his experience with the apps:

“The best thing about the platform is that it combines a bunch of tools in one location. You don’t have to have a refrigerant chart or a pipe size chart, for example, when you’re at a worksite. Calculations that used to take contractors up to an hour to compute now take about a minute. It’s a great training tool for the industry and the next step for bringing our industry into the IT age."

We look forward to hearing from our customers about their experiences with HVAC Web Apps.

A beta test site for HVAC Web Apps is live at www.hvacwebapps.com.

A Look Back at 2011

2012-01-12T09:59:00.001-06:00

It’s hard to believe that we opened two new locations last year, for a total of six stores throughout Tennessee — let’s just say that 2011 was a year of tremendous growth for us — and more growth is expected this year.

We added a Knoxville location in April, and our 14,000-square-foot store stocks our trademark selection of quality Ruud residential and commercial products. Last month we added a location in Chattanooga. As our first Ruud PROSTOCK store, the 20,000-square-foot location includes a 3,000-square-foot showroom.

We also took advantage of technology in 2011 by outfitting our sales reps with iPads. Now our reps have instant access, wherever they are, to important product information and other tools that allow them to better serve our customers. We also recently launched HVAC Web Apps, a platform of cloud-based calculator applications designed to simplify the most common tasks performed by a host of workers in the HVAC industry.

We have some ambitious things planned for the coming year. Our Web store goes live this month, and it will provide our customers an e-commerce solution for purchasing the HVAC materials and select parts that we carry.

This year we took huge strides as both a company and a team, all to better serve the needs of the 21^st Century HVAC contractor, and I fully expect 2012 to be even better.

We're Now Supplying Aprilaire IAQ Products

2011-12-12T10:47:00.000-06:00

We have recently added Aprilaire indoor air quality and humidity control products to our product offerings.

We're stocking Aprilaire’s whole-home humidifiers, including models 600A automatic, 400A automatic, 600M manual, 400M manual and the 800 steam humidifier. All Aprilaire humidification systems are digitally controlled, set-it-and-forget-it, and can be installed for both residential and commercial use.

By partnering with Aprilaire we’re able to supply our dealers, especially those in the Knoxville and Chattanooga markets, with an indoor air quality line that will help them cater to the needs of their customers.

Aprilaire is part of Research Products Corporation, a maker of indoor air quality products. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, Aprilaire produces humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air filters, thermostats and zone-control HVAC systems.

Contact your local Comfort Supply branch to learn more about the new IAQ products.

Holiday Greetings from Comfort Supply

2011-12-06T16:44:00.000-06:00

Happy holidays from all of us here at Comfort Supply!

We wish you and your family a season of warmth, joy and wonder.

We also wanted to quickly notify you of our holiday and inventory closures.

All locations will be closed Friday, December 23, Saturday, December 24 and Monday, December 26 for the Christmas holiday. We will also be closed Monday, January 2 for New Years. Our Nashville location will be open from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 31. If you have an emergency and need to contact Comfort Supply during these times, please call our emergency phone number at (615) 207-2858

Our Murfreesboro and Cookeville locations will be closed Friday, December 16 for inventory. Our Nashville location will also be closed Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17 for inventory.

Thank you for your business and support throughout 2011. We wish you a bright and auspicious beginning to 2012.

We're Open in Chattanooga!

2011-12-01T06:00:00.001-06:00

The view from Lookout Mountain over the city of Chattanooga.

Today we are officially opening our sixth location in Chattanooga. The new warehouse and showroom at 3000 Broad Street will be the first Ruud PROSTOCK store for Comfort Supply. The 20,000-square-foot Chattanooga store will offer parts and supplies that residential and commercial contractors need to install and service HVAC equipment.

By being a PROSTOCK store, our customers will benefit by having access to a greater PROSTOCK product offering, and greater stock consistency.

In 2010, Business Facilities magazine ranked Chattanooga first in the country for metro economic growth potential. The magazine cited Volkswagen’s $1 billion assembly plant in Enterprise South industrial park that, when ramped up, will employ more than 2,000 workers. An adjoining supplier park will create another 500 jobs.

All these things make Chattanooga the perfect location for our new store. This area is growing quickly and it is our opinion that it will only continue to grow in the coming years. We look forward to forming new customer relationships and cementing our commitment to the city of Chattanooga.

Jeremy Whitworth is the branch manager for the new store. You can reach him by calling 423.826.0349 (local) or 1.855.661.2992 (toll-free).

If you have any questions about our new branch, just leave them in the comments below.

Ruud Digital Controls Class

2011-11-07T13:32:00.002-06:00

The Ruud Digital Controls Class that was scheduled for this Wednesday 11-9-11 has been canceled. We regret any inconvenience this may cause.

Training Class Canceled

2011-11-01T12:12:00.002-05:00

Please advise: The Nashville training class that was scheduled for tomorrow has been canceled. As of now, we do not have a rescheduled date. That's the November 2 (Nashville): Ruud Comfort Control II Systems / OTNTT-CCS2 class that's been canceled. We're sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

GeneralAire Counter Days

2011-10-27T16:07:00.000-05:00

Want to learn more about GeneralAire?

Stop by one of Comfort Supply's upcoming Counter Days (and enjoy a free meal while you're here!)

GeneralAire Counter Day Schedule

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Nashville Counter Day over lunch
305 Arlington Ave., Nashville, TN 37210
Call 615.244.0920 for more information

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Murfreesboro Counter Day over lunch
1514 Sarah Ct., Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Call 615.907.1120 for more information

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Knoxville Counter Day in the morning
Cookeville Counter Day over lunch
608 Business Park Ln., Knoxville, TN 37932 OR 1410 Imperial Dr., Cookeville, TN 38501
Call 865.675.2774 (Knoxville) OR 931.432.0569 (Cookeville) for more information

Annual Chili Cookoff 10/28/11

2011-10-19T11:33:00.001-05:00

Comfort Supply will host its Annual Chili Cookoff on Friday, 10/28 at our Nashville branch location.

All contractors are invited to come enjoy project demonstrations and some friendly chili competition.

Friday, October 28
11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Comfort Supply Nashville
305 Arlington Avenue
Nashville, TN
(615) 244-0920

Haven't been able to attend a Chili Cookoff in the past? Check out the pictures from last year's event here.

Market Continues to Challenge Distributors

2011-10-17T09:33:00.000-05:00

Check out this article in November's ACHR News that discusses the current HVAC distribution market trends. The magazine interviewed me for the article, and I think it does a good job laying out a general overview of the types of things we're seeing across the industry.

Let me know what you think!

Comfort Supply Announces New Product Line: MonoFoil

2011-10-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

We're happy to announce that all Comfort Supply locations have started carrying MonoFoil, by Coeus Technology.

What is MonoFoil?

MonoFoil is an antimicrobial that when applied to a surface will protect that surface against molds, fungi, bacteria, algae and mildew.

How can MonoFoil help your customers?

MonoFoil can be applied to HVAC system components (insulation, coils, fans, walls, frames, filters, etc.)

Take, for example, air filters.

Air filters are part of the front-line defense for dealing with microbial problems in your customers' homes and offices. Fungi and bacteria thrive in air filters because they provide the moisture, nutrients, temperature and surfaces that these microorganisms need to survive, grow and reproduce. Humidity of the air being filtered leads to moisture, and the filter medium, finishing compounds, fibers and binding agents are receptive surfaces and nutrients for microorganisms.

When sprayed on a filter, MonoFoil can make that filter more efficient by protecting it from abnormal fungal and bacteria growth. This in turn reduces household dust and odors. Also, ASHRAE tests have shown that treating filters with MonoFoil doesn't negatively affect the filter performance, i.e. it has no affect on the filter's trapping capabilities.

What are MonoFoil's features?

It's odorless and colorless
Non-toxic
It doesn't gas or pollute the surrounding environment
Contains no heavy metals, phenols or arsenic
It permanently bonds to target surfaces
Can be applied to almost all interior surfaces
Long-lasting

It's effective, affordable, safe (it won't create the much feared "superbug") and easy to apply.

How can I learn more?

Contact your local Comfort Supply sales rep, and we will be happy to fill you in about all the details regarding MonoFoil.

Buy a Bosch, Get $50 Free

2011-09-23T15:33:00.000-05:00

Buy a Bosch Tankless Water Heater, get a $50 giftcard to Bass Pro Shop or Wal-Mart.

Promotion runs October 1 through November 30

Visit or call one of Comfort Supply's locations for more information.

Double your Atlantis Trip Points!

2011-09-20T11:14:00.000-05:00

Earn Double Atlantis Trip Points

For all purchases of Ruud equipment 14 SEER or higher

October 1, 2011 through November 30, 2011

Contact your Comfort Supply Salesman for more details.

Learn more about the Atlantis Adventure Trip here.

Don’t Wait Until Spring For HVAC Inspections

2011-09-09T11:17:00.000-05:00

Conventional wisdom suggests that an annual inspection of a homeowner’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is the best way to maintain the health and peak efficiency of a system.

Usually a HVAC contractor performs that maintenance in the spring, in preparation for the upcoming summer. But, what about fall maintenance for the upcoming winter months?

When switching from cooling to heating, there are maintenance tasks in the fall can have a big impact on homeowners’ utility bills in the winter. It’s just as important that your heating equipment work at its peak efficiency as your cooling equipment, and in many climates where heating costs far outweigh cooling costs, it’s more important.

Comfort Supply suggests semiannual HVAC maintenance—in the fall and in the spring—to detect and prevent future costly repairs.

Contractors should inspect and service gas controls, heat exchanges, heat pumps, coils and condensers. Clean coils on heat pumps, and combustion chambers on gas furnaces. Watch for rusted or cracked heat exchanges as these can release carbon monoxide into a customer’s home.

It’s one thing to present semiannual maintenance as an option to a homeowner. It’s another thing entirely to actually sell the idea.

We recommend setting up automated communications to homeowners to let them know when maintenance is due. This can be done through email, direct mail or over the phone. Communicate to your customers through the channels that they prefer, and make it as easy a possible for customers to be aware of and schedule upcoming maintenance.

Contractors can also add a semiannual inspection option to their service contracts, and contractors sell this option by highlighting its benefits.

The best way to sell semiannual preventative maintenance is to be honest and remind the homeowner of its primary benefit: It decreases costs over the entire life of the HVAC equipment. If long-term benefits evade your customer, use short-term examples the homeowner can understand. For example, leaking ducts can reduce energy efficiency by up to 20 percent. That’s $15 on a $75 monthly utility bill.

SEER vs. EER

2011-09-02T11:19:00.000-05:00

Do you know the difference between ‘SEER’ and ‘EER’ ratings? If so, do you know how to explain this difference to your customers? Do you know which is the better ranking to use in different situations and why it matters?

What’s SEER?

SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio

The most common measurement used to rank the efficiency of a central air conditioner, SEER is the certified AHRI rating for a residential product 65,000 BTUH and under. SEER ratings are determined in “moderate temperatures,” 82 degrees or below.

What’s EER?

EER: Energy Efficiency Ratio

It’s the AHRI certified rating for commercial equipment with capacity greater than 65,000 BTUH. EER is a hot weather snapshot of efficiency taken at the same conditions as AHRI Listed Capacity, 95 degrees or hotter.

How can you explain SEER vs. EER ratings to your customers?

Start by using buzzwords like ‘Energy Star,’ which designates equipment that ranks in the top 25% of efficiency. Then explain that while SEER is more commonly known, both SEER and EER ratings are considered in Energy Star calculations. The difference being that SEER is a rating of efficiency at moderate temps and EER is a rating of efficiency at extreme temps.

Which ranking is better to use?

The EER rating is truly the most effective way to measure the efficiency of a central air conditioner. When do homeowners care more about their air conditioners, when it’s 75 degrees or when it’s 100 degrees outside? If you answered 100 degrees (which is what most people answer) then your customers are better off getting a central air conditioner with a high EER rating.

Why does it matter?

Besides saving homeowners energy (and money on utility bills) when they need it most, equipment with a higher EER rating tends to be more expensive, so you can upgrade your sale simply by having the SEER vs. EER conversation with your customer.

HVAC Salesmen Take Applications on the Road

2011-07-27T13:53:00.000-05:00

Smartphone and tablet technology can help increase productivity & sales opportunities

At the intersection of technology and the heating and air conditioning industry lies a glut of smartphone and tablet apps for the HVAC professional. There’s HVAC Buddy, HVAC Formulator, HVAC Terminology and the ACCA and ASHRAE apps to name a few. But the question remains, how—if at all—are these tools being used in the field?

We recently asked two Comfort Supply employees how they use smartphone and tablet technology. See their responses below.

Micah Sandlin, an outside salesman, has been outfitted with an iPad for two months. “I use it more and more everyday,” Sandlin said.

His favorite tool is Docs to Go, an application that enables you to create documents such as quotes to send to others, or keep and send to your email. “I can create an order and send it to the sales counter, so my customer can get products without waiting for me to get back to the office,” Sandlin said.

Rocky Cothran, technical service advisor, also finds the app helpful. “You can store any file that you need, like your price list, spec books and list of Middle Tennessee contractors,” Cothran said. “The app helps you find documents really quickly too. I can easily search 200 page manuals.”

Another useful tool when out in the field is the Contractors App Box. “With this app, I can still write an order when I’m on the road. The app pulls up the form just like an order sheet, then emails it directly to the computer in the office,” Cothran said. “You can also access job site and accident sheets, invoicing materials, estimates and purchase order emails.”

Built-in, general use applications like note pads, calendars and maps can also improve an HVAC salesman’s productivity.

“I use the iPad’s NotePad Pro app all the time. It’s a really helpful tool to take notes with on job site calls,” Sandlin said. “Since the app stores notes by the date the data was entered, my notes stay organized too.”

“The notepad works great for me, just like a pencil and paper,” Cothran said. “I can even create wiring diagrams and email them back to the office. Obviously, when you’re driving around Tennessee and Kentucky, the GPS app comes in very handy too.”

Having technology readily available also allows HVAC salesman to pull up websites on a sales call.

Salesmen can pull up a supplier’s website and show their customers the latest specs, equipment, sales and any promotions that we may be having. For example, Honeywell has a very readable website on the iPad. Salesmen can look up thermostats, search by model number and download installer instructions.

“There are so many products on the market, it’s hard to remember all the model specs. When I’m on the road with my iPhone or iPad, I can research my competitor’s products on the Internet. By learning about other products, I can better sell my unit over someone else’s unit,” Cothran said. “It’s a tool that helps me perform my job better.”

Pick-A-Trip Winners

2011-06-23T11:15:00.000-05:00

There were 48 trips won in this year's Pick-A-Trip contest. That's 2.5 times more trips than last year! You can find the winners and prize levels below. For more details on the vacations won, visit our website. Thanks to all of our contractors to participated in this fantastic program!

Level One Winners:

Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling
Jason's Heating & Cooling
Mid South Appliance
Premier Heating and Cooling
Qualified Service & Instillation
Southern Heat & Air
Stidhams Heat & Air
Larry Gentry
D&L Heating and Cooling
Designed Climate
Home Heat & Air Conditioning Services
JEM Mechanical
Beard's Heating and Cooling
Bobby Fox
Darrell Lyle Construction
Giles Insulators
McBroom's HVAC
McNeese Service
Mid-State Air Conditioning & Heating
Sewell Electric
Accu Comfort HVAC
All Seasons Comfort LLC (2 trips won)
Iles Heating and Cooling (2 trips won)
Pro-Service Heat & Air (2 trips won)
Rogers Service
Sain Heating & Cooling
Sparta Heating & AC (3 trips won)
Taylor Service
WW Morrow
B&R Services
L&G Plumbing and Heating Services
H & H Heating, Air & Refrigeration (2 trips won)
Link's Heating & Air Conditioning
Malugin Heating & Cooling
Total Comfort Systems

Level Two Winners:

Cloud's Heating & Cooling
Charles Stone Heating & Cooling
Taylor Service
Link's Heating & Air Conditioning

Level Three Winners: (there were no Level Three winners)

Level Four Winners:

Temp Control LLC
Charles Stone Heating & Cooling (2 trips won)

Sizzling Summer Special

2011-06-17T15:45:00.001-05:00

Buy a Ruud tankless water heater, Ruud generator or Samsung minisplit – and select one Omaha Steaks^®gourmet package from the Omaha Steaks President’s Collection. To see the list of 12 options to choose from, click here.

Offer going on July 1 through August 31, 2011.

Visit or call your local Comfort Supply store today for more information – and start your summer off sizzling!

Go Green or Go Home

2011-06-08T08:35:00.000-05:00

It's been a year since we started our Certified Green Contractor program and it's going great! Three companies have qualified for the program so far: J&J Heating & Cooling, Total HVAC and Temp Control LLC.

Why should you go green? Green initiatives can help bring in new business. More and more customers are looking to their HVAC contractors for environmentally conscientious options.

Ollie Johnson, co-owner of J&J Heating & Cooling, said, “Green business was up last year. It seems that customers are interested in anything that J&J can do to save them money and lower their energy costs. Any program that catches customers’ attentions and gets them interested in your company is a good thing.”

In addition to our Green Contractor Program, we recently launched the Rapid Recovery Program. The DYNACYCLE Refrigerant Recycling Program gives you store credit, good towards any purchase, in return for your R22 Recovery Cylinders. To learn more about Rapid Recovery read this blog entry on the program.

To help your company get green, we've compiled some resources on our website. We've gathered all sorts of information regarding our Certified Green Contractor Program, green contractors, green equipment and green news all in one place.

Think your company has what it takes? Interested in working towards becoming the next Comfort Supply Certified Green Contractor? Contact your local Comfort Supply salesperson, or call 800-467-4235 to get started.

Can Potential Customers Find You?

2011-06-03T08:58:00.000-05:00

(Courtesy of HubSpot Blog)

Out are the days of telephone book listings. In are the days of online directories.

The internet is now the go-to-place for people to find local businesses. But how do you know what sites are the most important? Lucky for you, the people at HubSpot Blog have compiled a great list of the top-50 local business directories.

Below is the list, but you can also click here for more information.

So go ahead. Check the list out. If your company isn't on some of these--sign up now! Simply registering your company with these directories can make it 100 times easier for your customers to find you!

Top-50 Business Directories:

1. Google
2. Bing
3. Yahoo!
4. Yelp
5. Merchant Circle
6. LinkedIn
7. YellowPages.com
9. Whitepages
10. Supermedia
11. Yellowbook
12. CitySearch
13. Mapquest
14. Biznik
15. Local.com
16. Foursquare
17. ThinkLocal
18. CitySlick
19. USYellowPages
20. MyCity
21. Outside.in
22. Dex
23. BizJournals.com
24. TeleAtlas
25. Justclicklocal
26. Discover our Town
27. Metrobot
28. Best Deals on
29. twibs
30. LocalEze
31. Kudzu
32. CityVoter
33. Manta
34. Zipweb
35. MatchPoint
36. UsCity.net
37. Local Site submit
38. InfoUSA
39. Axciom
40. Infignos
41. Yellowassistance
42. ChoiceVendor.com
42. Myhuckleberry
43. Genieknows
44. MojoPages
45. Brownbook
46. Magic Yellow
47. CitySquares
48. TeleAtlas
49. Navteq GPS

R22 Freon Sale

2011-05-24T13:02:00.000-05:00

R22 Freon Sale going on now at all Comfort Supply locations

Sale Ends June 30, 2011

Call or visit your Comfort Supply sales rep for pricing and information

Buy More! Save More!

Reduced Fees on KwikComfort Financing Program

2011-05-19T11:27:00.000-05:00

Ruud is pleased to announce the continued relationship with GE Money that will provide Ruud Reliable Top Contractors with strong financing tools and programs through our Ruud KwikComfort Financing Program.

To celebrate our continued partnership, Ruud and GE Money are pleased to announce new, lower contractor fees on all With Payment, Deferred Interest credit plans! The new program rate sheets have been posted for your convenience here. If you aren't yet an enrolled Contractor, visit us to enroll and review the program information.

Nashville Open House (More Pictures!)

2011-05-18T13:30:00.000-05:00

Our Nashville Open House on Friday, May 13 was packed with people enjoying the food, vendors and Lane Motor Museum. Photos from the event are posted below.

Craig Killebrew, Craig's AC; David Blunkall, Air Comfort

Matt Reiners, General Air; David Butler, Comfort Supply; Tim Barton, General Air

Bray Melson, Rapid Recovery; Billy Jobe, Comfort Supply

Dennis Hargus, Hargus Heating & Air; Dan Melson, Rapid Recovery

Tim Barton, General Air; Ogden Rattliff, Comfort Supply

Tammi, Josiah and Terry Hudgnis, Cool Solutions Repair

L to R: Clay Blevins, Brad Blevins, Tim Kentner and Jim Eades of Blevins Inc.

Terry, Tim and Michael of Qualified Service-Installation

Kevin Harbour and Jacob McDaniel, Total HVAC

Chris Lydick and Jim Barber, Blevins Inc.

Eloy and Susan Saban with their children (Dillon, Sasha and Emily), Temp Control LLC

Clarksville Open House - Pictures from the Event

2011-05-18T13:18:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who attended our Clarksville Open House on Thursday, May 12. The weather and event was great. Check out the photos below & see you next year!

L to R: Jay Hammond, GEO Excel; Dan Hoegemeier, Mueller Industries; Chad Taylor, Gray Flex; Brandon Lemons, Ralph Easterday; Gene Dyke, Fieldpiece; Dan Melson, Rapid Recovery

Brandon Lemons, Ralph Easterday; Chad Taylor, Gray Flex

Rucker Chunn, JayKay Sales; Gene Dyke, Fieldpiece

David Peck; Johnny Ransdell, Johnny Ransdell Plumbing; Jimmy Shelton; Comfort Supply

Tim Duncan, Standex

Steve Cook, Morton Mechanical; Dan Melson, Rapid Recovery; Gordon Ramseur, Reflectix; Billy Jobe, Comfort Supply

Johnathan Greene and Adam Harrison, H & H Heating & Air; Daniel Long, Comfort Supply

Open Houses This Week (3 locations!)

2011-05-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

It's open house time again -- this time with our Clarksville, Murfreesboro and Nashville locations getting in on the fun.

Here are the details:

Clarksville Open House

DATE: Thursday, May 12, 2011
TIME: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
LOCATION: 1460 New Ashland City Road, Clarksville, TN 37040

For more information, please contact Mark White at the Clarksville office (931) 802-6050.

Murfreesboro Open House

DATE: Thursday, May 12, 2011
TIME: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
LOCATION: 1514 Sarah Court, Murfreesboro, TN 37129

For more information, please contact Rob Warpool at the Murfreesboro office (615) 907-1120.

Nashville Open House

DATE: Friday, May 13, 2011
TIME: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
LOCATION: Lane Motor Museum, 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210

The Lane Motor Museum is next to the Comfort Supply Nashville headquarters. There will be FREE museum admission for Comfort Supply guests and visitors. For more information, please contact Crissy Bond at the Nashville office (615) 244-0920.

Food, fun and product demonstrations for all. Hope to see you there!

Knoxville Grand Opening: Pictures from the Event

2011-05-02T15:04:00.000-05:00

Tents outside the new Knoxville location

Lee Purvis, Centainteed; Matt Reiners, General Aid

Greg Moore, Brandon Lemons and Chad Taylor

Clay Blevins, Randy Roberts

Mike Himmel, Pro Stock and Billy Jobe, Comfort Supply

Dan Melson and Sue Smith

John Lay, Eagle Heat & Air; David Sosna and Clay Blevins, Comfort Supply

Ogden Rattliff, Clay Blevins and Billy Jobe, Comfort Supply

Al Allen and David Sosna, Comfort Supply

These are just a sample of the photos from the event. Check out our Facebook page to see more.

Cookeville Open House, Friday, April 22

2011-04-18T16:20:00.001-05:00

Not to be outdone by the Knoxville Grand Opening -- Our Cookeville Annual Open House is this week as well.

WHEN: Friday, April 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE: 1410 Imperial Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501

MORE INFORMATION: Call our Cookeville office at 931.432.0569

Here's the list of vendors and brands that will be attending our Cookeville Open House:

You're Invited to Comfort Supply's Knoxville Grand Opening

2011-04-18T15:57:00.001-05:00

You are invited to attend Comfort Supply’s grand opening at our new Knoxville location.

DATE: April 21, 2011 (This Thursday!)

TIME: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

LOCATION: 608 Business Park Lane, Knoxville TN 37932

We opened our Knoxville location for business earlier this month. The warehouse and store will offer everything that residential and commercial contractors need to install and service HVAC equipment. Join us in celebrating this new branch; there will be food, product demonstrations and, as always, good company.

Vendors and brands that will attend the grand opening include: 5-2-1, Aeroflex USA, Atco Flexible Duct, Berry Plastics- Nashua & Polyken, Carlisle HVAC Products (Hardcast), CertainTeed, Diversitech, Dormont Gas Connectors, Dundas Jafine, Inc., Eubank National Coil Company, Fieldpiece, Gray Flex, Honeywell Genesis, Honeywell International, Lenox Industrial Tools, Lima Grilles and Registers, Little Giant, Malco Products, Metal-Fab, Inc., Modine, Mueller, Inc., Prostock, Refco, Reflectix Inc., Rheem Water Heaters, Ritchie Yellow Jacket, Ruud, Samsung, Sealed Unit Parts Company, Standex, Venture Tape.

For more information, please contact the Knoxville office at (865) 675-2774.

Samsung Mini Split Gift Card Promo

2011-04-15T15:46:00.000-05:00

Buy any Samsung Mini Split, Get a $50 gift card from Bass Pro Shop or Walmart, your choice.

Offer good April 15, 2011 – May 31, 2011. (Must be stock item, while supplies last) Prizes will be awarded in June.

Available at all Comfort Supply locations.

Item # Description BTU

Heat Pump 1 Zone

AQV09             INVERTER 20 SEER R410 A              9,000
AQV12             INVERTER 19 SEER R410A               12,000
AQV18             INVERTER 17 SEER R410A               18,000
AQV24             INVERTER 15.5 SEER R410A            24,000
AQV36             INVERTER 15.0 SEER R410A            36,000

Samsung Vivace

                         Heat Pump 1 Zone

AQV12VB         INVERTER 19 SEER R410A            12,000
AQV18VB         INVERTER 17 SEER R410A          18,000
AQV24VB         INVERTER 15.5 SEER R410A       24,000

Recycle. Get Rewarded.

2011-04-15T15:17:00.000-05:00

DYNACYCLE Refrigerant Recycling Program

Help the environment, while getting paid to recover R22.

As the market price of R22 increases, you earn more for each pound of R22 that you recover. You will receive the value of your recovered gas in the form of a credit from Comfort Supply. Monthly updates are provided on the value of your recovered R22.

It's SIMPLE. Sign up for the DYNACYCLE program. Bring your R22 recovery cylinders to your Comfort Supply. Receive your credit, good toward any purchase.

Why DYNACYCLE?

Program turns a cost center into a profit center
Comply with EPA regulations and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
EPA-compliant reports supplied at no charge
Help secure a supply of R22 to prevent future shortages
Lightweight composite cylinders available
NO Freight Costs
NO Minimum Quantity
NO Obligation to purchase refrigerant
Simply drop off recovered R22 at Comfort Supply and GET PAID

Call For Entries

2011-04-15T14:52:00.000-05:00

Contracting Business Magazine — Quality Home Comfort Awards

Contracting Business Magazine recently contacted us to give us the heads up that our residential contractors are eligible to enter the 2011 Quality Home Comfort Awards. Entries are due May 6th.

About the contest: Projects that qualify for this competition are either retrofit or new construction jobs where mechanical systems technology is applied in a creative way to solve customer comfort and/or health issues in a cost-effective, sustainable, and efficient manner. The technology used isn’t the key to a winning entry: how it is applied and commissioned is. Remember: quality and comfort are vitally important. Also, homeowners must agree to allow a photographer to visit to take some photos of the home and the equipment.

Benefits of winning: Winners receive a registration to Contracting Business' HVAC Comfortech show ($625 value!), a feature article, the award and help marketing the award, via press releases and logos.

Executive Editor for the magazine, Terry McIver, can walk you through the application process if you get stuck. Terry can be reached at terence.mciver@penton.com.

The contest guidelines at the top of this webpage. They are titled "2011 QHCA Entry Guidelines."

I know that your work absolutely qualifies, so enter today!

Use New Tactics & Sell More Humidity Control Equipment

2011-04-11T16:29:00.000-05:00

Check out our most recent article in HVAC Insider about selling humidity control equipment. For your convenience, we've transcribed the article below. We also received some great (and exactly right) feedback from Victor McCauley of Roscoe Brown about the article that we've amended below.

Thanks for reading and keep the feedback coming!

Our Article:

Traditionally, sales of humidifiers and dehumidifiers largely depended on the location and season of the sale. If a contractor lived in the southwest or it was winter, they’d sell humidifiers. If it was the southeast or summer, they’d sell dehumidifiers.

Nowadays, new, tightly constructed buildings and retrofitted older structures are changing the sales formula. It could be the heart of winter, and your home could be too humid because your double-paned, insulated, weather-tight windows don’t let the dampness from your washing machine, shower or dishwasher escape.

We suggest selling humidity control equipment based upon your client and building type, instead of location and season. This change will open new revenue avenues and opportunities.

If your client is elderly or has children, bring up the health benefits of maintaining a stable humidity level. According to Mayo Clinic, low humidity can cause dry skin and sinuses, itchy eyes, cracked lips, irritated nose and throat and colds. High humidity can bring on allergies and asthma. A central unit can guard against all of those symptoms and keep your indoor air at the preferred 40-60% humidity range.

Use lifestyle cues to discuss the pros and cons of different types of equipment. For example, a client with small children may avoid purchasing a steam humidifier, since hot water can cause burns, but an elderly or asthmatic client may prefer steam since it produces less airborne allergens than many cool-mist humidifiers.

If your client is affluent, explain that proper humidification can help protect valuable furnishings. High-ticket items like art and paintings can peel or chip if air isn’t humid enough, or grow mold if air is too humid. Fixtures, furniture and woodwork can warp if humidity isn’t controlled, and warping gets worse if you have gas heat. Dry air can cause static electricity, which can damage electronics.

If your client is money conscious, suggest that they test their space with a hygrometer at different times during the day to determine if they need a humidity control solution. Mention lower-price options, like cool-mist humidifiers.

If the building is a new home or commercial space, remind your client that the contractor most likely used humidity control equipment to stabilize the floor and trim during construction. Post-build, good humidification is needed to keep doors and windows latching correctly and floorboards aligned.

If your client already has a humidification system, make sure the unit fulfills all the client’s needs. Discuss the limitations of a freestanding unit and suggest a whole house solution. You should also check to see if the existing equipment needs replacement. Over time bacteria and mineral deposits can build up on units and cause them to get dirty. Dirty units can make your clients sick.

According the EPA, on average, Americans spend about 90% or more of their time indoors. As an HVAC service provider, you can help make that time more pleasant and comfortable.

Mr. McCauley's Feedback:

Your story about humidity in the HVAC Insider was close, but you left out some critical stuff. The new, tightly built homes need fresh air pumped in on purpose. That brings up another humidity problem during the months when there is no call for cooling and it is raining outside. During that time a dedicated dehumidifier is required. Tight home also have a chemistry problem. Most of the common products of construction off-gas a bad chemical soup that will hurt small kids and the folks who are chemically sensitive. If new homes aren't ventilated according to the new ICC 2006 Energy Code (seal tight and ventilate right) things can get out of hand and the builder can get in trouble.

To be comfortable today controlling humidity by maintaining the same level every day is the only way.

You need to add humidity during the winter and let nature ventilate the home when it is cold. During the summer when there is a load your unit should run long enough to control things. But wait, what if you use a programmable stat with it set back to 80 degrees all day and doesn't get to run long enough before night time set back to affect the humidity because you have a high efficiency unit that satisfies the sensible temperature too quickly? This is becoming more common. Don't listen to the equipment guys, their standard product just can't control humidity in this area. Fuzzy stuff will start to grow where you don't want it to.

So what is the answer? You need to get your good contractors to explain to the good home owners that they need to add a steam humidifier and ventilating dehumidifier controlled by the new Honeywell Prestige IAQ stat in every home in Tennessee in order to be comfortable when you upgrade equipment or build a new place. For homes with finished basements or sealed crawl spaces this is a no-brainer.

Atlantis Adventure – Paradise Island, Bahamas

2011-03-23T13:28:00.001-05:00

Experience the ultimate in recreation and relaxation. Just direct your purchase to Comfort Supply, where you get quality products, competitive prices and excellent service.

Promotion Period: January 1, 2011-December 31, 2011

Trip Period: February 8-12, 2012

Here is a brief glimpse of what your Atlantis Adventure includes:

Roundtrip airfare Nashville/Nassau and transfers to the resort.
Deluxe accommodations (based on double occupancy) for four nights at the Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas.
Full American breakfast daily, including a morning tour briefing to help plan your activities.
Gala welcoming cocktail party with dinner and music.
Farewell evening with cocktails, dinner and entertainment.
Two dinners at leisure with cash allowance for the restaurants of your choice.
Days and nights of sun, fun and more.
Services of a staff member of The GRA Group.

Here is how to earn a five-day, four-night Atlantis Adventure:

Fill out your registration form here. Once registered, we will inform you of your Base Quota to earn your first trip.
Earn two Trip Points for each $100 of Ruud purchases from Comfort Supply up to your Base Quota during the promotional period.
Earn five Trip Points for each $100 of Ruud purchases from Comfort Supply over your Base Quota during the promotional period.
Trips are valued at 4,600 points per couple, including complete air and ground package combined, based on double occupancy. Double occupancy means two people sharing a room.
Participants must earn a minimum of 2,300 points to qualify. Any unearned portions of the trip may be purchased subject to availability. Availability for buy-ins is not guaranteed.

Visit our website for additional rules and regulations.

Comfort Supply Goes Green in Schools

2011-03-21T12:42:00.000-05:00

The Nashville Business Journal's 3/18 "Spotlight on Education" included an interview and information on Comfort Supply's in-the-works partnership with LEAD academy. Read the full article here.

Details about the Comfort Supply/LEAD partnership:

We are currently in exploratory conversations with LEAD’s Cameron Middle School campus to create a “Geothermal classroom” to educate kids about energy and energy efficiency. We have inspected the building’s current HVAC equipment and are fleshing out the partnership details.

We chose LEAD because the school is in the process of taking over Cameron Middle School, which is the closest school to the Comfort Supply offices at 305 Arlington Ave. Cameron also serves primarily underprivileged kids. We want to support our local school, community and LEAD. As a charter school, LEAD’s a place where new ideas in education are going on; our involvement with green education could tap into that.

Spring Cleaning Special

2011-03-18T15:53:00.000-05:00

We have coil cleaner on sale now through April 30, 2011.

Find great deals on the following products:

CCR, Coil Cleaner, PRO RED
CCY, Coil Cleaner, PRO YELLOW
CCG, Coil Cleaner, PRO GREEN
CCB, Coil Cleaner, PRO BROWN
CCBL, Coil Cleaner, PRO BLUE
ECOCOIL, Coil Cleaner, BIODEGRADABLE
TRIPLED, Coil Cleaner, UNIVERSAL

Contact your salesman, or visit one of our locations for specific pricing information.

Photos from the "HVAC Takes a Shine to the iPad" article

2011-02-11T10:25:00.000-06:00

The below pictures were taken for the "HVAC Takes a Shine to the iPad" story. The first one was published with the article, the other two weren't published, but were taken at the same time. Enjoy!

Comfort Supply, a Tennessee distributor, has outfitted its sales staff with iPads. J.J. King, sales representative, and Billy Jobe, district manager, show off their iPads inside the Nashville office.

J.J. King with his iPad outside of his truck on a snowy morning!

J.J. with his iPad inside his truck.

HVAC Takes a Shine to the iPad

2011-02-08T15:37:00.000-06:00

ACHR the NEWS printed an article yesterday about the use of iPads in the HVAC industry. Comfort Supply was lucky enough to give the distributor case study. You can read the whole article here, or read the section about Comfort Supply below.

DISTRIBUTOR TRAINING

Comfort Supply HVAC (Nashville, Tenn.) is a Ruud distributor with five branches. Billy Jobe is district manager of sales and operations, and he’s passionate about his company’s drive to be at the forefront of new technology. Comfort Supply is determined to set a progressive example for its contractor customers, so the distributor has outfitted six sales representatives and one service technician with iPads. “Our salesmen have had them in the field for about a month now, and they really like them better than their laptops,” Jobe said.

Accessibility to information is key. “With the iPad they can pull up all of our consumer literature that tells about all of our equipment,” Jobe said.

“They are able to pull up a remote site from Ruud that gives all of the product specification information, including wiring diagrams, and how to match systems together to get certain SEER ratings.

“Along with that, they can pull up any marketing programs that we offer. And they can pull up another site with all of our parts information.”

In addition to accessing this general information, Comfort Supply’s team is also using the iPad to train contractors on Design Star, a new program designed by Ruud that estimates heat loads for houses.

“Design Star was made specifically for the iPad, so it’s easier to use on the iPad,” Jobe explained. “It gives a contractor a proposal that they can print off for a homeowner.”

Comfort Supply is also working to set up an ordering system so that its salespeople can order equipment through their iPads. “Our IT department is trying to get them all linked up so salesmen can do an order on the spot,” Jobe said. “It will cut down time. It will cut out one or two phone calls and needing a person to handle the calls.”

MOBILE SOLUTION

A mobile solution like the iPad is exactly what his sales team needs, Jobe explained, because they are on the road all the time. Jobe has been impressed with the iPad’s ability to connect to the Internet. “The iPad gives you a little more versatility with the wireless card,” he said. “It seems to react better with WiFi cards than laptops do. Plus, they allow so many more options. With iPads, you can get the apps for every type of HVAC equation.”

The durability and size of the iPad have also been beneficial. “We bought a hard rubber shock case for each one, and we haven’t had any issues as far as damage or breaking,” Jobe said. “And they’re smaller and easier to carry.”

The iPad is also aiding the team to become more organized. “They’re just learning that it’s a lot easier to keep track of everything,” Jobe said. “They’re not carrying files or a box full of quotes. We’ve cut down their time some so far, and I expect that to get better.”

IN THE FIELD

Rocky Cothron, a service technician at Comfort Supply, said that so far he is tickled with his iPad. It has made his job easier and is more rugged than his old laptop, he said, adding, “I had it out in the rain the other day.”

For Cothron, the iPad is more about accessing the web and keeping track of his notes than downloading the latest apps. “Mainly, it’s the access to the Internet and the manufacturer’s website that really helps me,” he said. “Most of the apps they have out there are for general contractors, and you can wind up with a hefty bill if you download a bunch of them. I use the Internet more than anything because it doesn’t cost you anything.”

For instance, Cothron explained, he saves pressure charts and wiring diagrams from the web to make them readily available on his iPad.

“It’s just like you picked up your desk and carried it with you, only it’s in a little bitty black pad,” Cothron said. The iPad has a notepad app included that “looks like a legal pad and logs in [notes] by the day.” Using this feature, Cothron said, he can type whatever notes he needs — and he doesn’t even have to carry a pen.

He said that when he first pulls out his iPad to take notes on a job, “It kind of scares the contractors sometimes. But it’s actually just helping me out in the field.”

Cothron also finds the iPad useful for presentations. “It’s really been helpful to me to use it for a presentation. You can show the customer’s website, and you can pull up the parts they need.” As a natural salesman, Cothron always wants to make the sale right then and there. When he can pull up the information he needs to complete the deal on his iPad, it’s that much easier for him.

Cothron added that he’s only had his iPad for about two months. “I’m still learning about it. There’s a lot that thing will do that I haven’t tapped into.”

PASSING ON THE iPAD

Jobe repeatedly stressed the importance of training contractors on use of the iPad. “If I can prove it works for me, they will follow,” he said. “If we can prove it’s making our job easier, they know that if it works for us, it will work for them.”

He admitted, “We use our sales guys as guinea pigs sometimes to show our contractors that we can do this, and so can they.” Initially, according to Jobe, many contractors look at a device like the iPad as a newfangled thing that’s “not going to work right.”

To counter this attitude, everyone at Comfort Supply tries to be forward-thinking and open to change, according to Jobe. He added that the company’s purchase of seven iPads is just the beginning. “Our use of iPads will be increased in the future. We do see it growing and coming to inside sales staff and branch managers.”

He continued, “We can’t wait until we get the iPad fully operational with everything we want to get on it. I feel through 2011 it will be a key tool for how we get our dealers training on all the programs we offer.”

Publication date: 02/07/2011
Kimberly Schwartz
News and Legislation Editor

AHR Expo- View of the Rheem Exhibit

2011-02-03T08:33:00.000-06:00

Tutorial of Rheem iPad App from AHR Expo

2011-02-03T08:30:00.001-06:00

Training Class Schedule 2011

2011-02-02T10:18:00.004-06:00

Check out our 2011 Training Class Schedule on the Comfort Supply website. Call Crissy Bond at Comfort Supply (615) 244-0920 for more information.

Live from the 2011 AHR Expo

2011-02-01T12:40:00.004-06:00

I am currently at the AHR Expo in Las Vegas, and Ruud is making a product launch with some new prototypes of their AC and heating line. See the pictures below!

The trade show runs through tomorrow. For more information, check out the the expo's website.

Comfort Supply Customer Expands into Plumbing

2011-01-26T12:35:00.008-06:00

We are happy to announce today that Temp Control LLC is opening a new plumbing division that will round out the company's existing HVAC and electrical departments.

The plumbing division opened for service this month and will expand to include water heater replacement and residential plumbing installation next month.

When complete, the division will offer routine maintenance, water and sewer line repairs, faucet repairs and replacement, frozen pipe repairs, water main and sewer line repairs, faucet repairs and replacement, frozen pipe repairs, water main and sewer main replacements and water softener and tankless water heater installations.

The Nashville-based dealer of Ruud equipment has been planning its expansion into plumbing for the last four months.

From left to right: Nate Holton, Ryan Fathera, Reneé Wise, Eloy Saban, Chris Moses, and Kurt Aurand.

Winterize Your Heating System to Save Money This Winter

2011-01-10T10:14:00.010-06:00

Below is some great information from Temp Control LLC, a Ruud Top Contractor, on winterizing your home for winter. With the snowfall this morning, winter may be on your mind!

WINTERIZE YOUR HEATING SYSTEM TO SAVE MONEY THIS WINTER

There is no denying that winter energy bills can be a shock. One way to absorb that shock is to contribute to your utility provider’s “winter fund” throughout the year. Another way – requiring no yearlong commitment – is to winterize your home and heating system.

Temp Control LLC, a Nashville-based dealer of Ruud HVAC equipment, suggested a few easy tips to help you winterize your heating system and reduce your energy needs this winter.

The simplest way to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system is to change your air filter every 30 days. “Your furnace works harder to push heat through a dirty filter,” Eloy Saban, owner of Temp Control LLC, said. “A dirty filter uses more energy, circulates allergens and can even cause a fire.”

Temp Control LLC’s crews tell their customers to buy filters in bulk and change them every month when they pay their utility bills. “That way they won’t forget. It becomes part of their routine,” Saban said.

Schedule an annual heating checkup by a qualified technician. Coil cleanings on heat pumps and combustion chamber cleanings on gas furnaces can reduce your utility bills. Through the In-Home Energy Evaluation Program, the Tennessee Valley Authority offers rebates and financing on these types of energy improvements.

Sometimes maintenance reveals hidden safety concerns. Rusted or cracked heat exchangers can release carbon monoxide into your home. “Ask your service technician if your heat exchanger shows signs of rust or cracks, and if so repair immediately,” Saban warned. “At the bare minimum keep carbon monoxide detectors in your home.”

If possible, invest in a programmable thermostat. “If saving money is your main objective, a programmable thermostat makes a lot of sense,” Saban added that by programming the temperature of your home down during work and night hours you can cut down on your energy bill and extend the life of your HVAC system. “You don’t have to compromise on comfort to stay warm this winter. Little adjustments can have a big impact on the life and efficiency of your heating system.”

About Temp Control LLC: Family owned and operated in the heart of Music City. Temp Control LLC is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau, a Ruud Top Contractor, and a member of TVA’s Quality Contractor Network. Temp Control LLC uses green operating practices. Find them on the web at www.tempcontrolac.com or call 615-837-4449.

Article in NBJ

2010-12-30T11:21:00.003-06:00

Check out my Forty Under 40 article published in the Dec. 17, 2010 edition of the Nashville Business Journal.

NBJ's "Forty Under 40" recognizes business leaders under the age of 40 who've made an impact in the Nashville and Middle Tennessee business communities. I was lucky to be able to represent Comfort Supply in 2010.

Let me know what you think of the article.

Holiday Breakfast

2010-12-22T08:19:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone, join us this morning (Wednesday, December 22) at all Comfort Supply locations for our holiday breakfast. We have biscuits and gravy, coffee and juice, etc. The breakfast is from 7 to 10 a.m.

See you there.

UPDATED: Check out the photos from the Nashville branch's breakfast, posted on our Facebook page.

Good News for HVAC Technicians

2010-12-17T16:24:00.002-06:00

The latest iteration of rankings by U.S. News & World Reports puts HVAC technicians on the list of "The 50 Best Careers of 2011." The Dec. 6 article explains that HVAC technicians are new to the list this year "largely because of [the field's] high expected job growth."

According to the experts and economists, our industry should expect to "increase by 86,600 jobs, or 28 percent, between 2008 and 2018."

In layman's terms: Business will be booming.

Read the full article here.

Total HVAC/Green Contractor in the NEWS

2010-12-03T11:01:00.004-06:00

Happy (early) weekend everyone!

It case you missed this great article about Total HVAC and our Green Contractor Program, check it out here. The article was published on the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration NEWS Web site in October. If you would like to get involved in the program, learn more on our Web site.

Just respond to this post if you have any questions.

Pick-A-Trip Program

2010-11-11T17:16:00.003-06:00

Back by popular demand, our Pick-A-Trip program began November 1 and will run through April 30, 2011.

Increase your Ruud equipment purchases by $15,000 or more over the same time period last year and win a vacation. It's that easy.

Are you a relatively small operation? This program is great for smaller contractors because even the lowest investment level earns your some fantastic trips. Spend four days aboard a Carnival or Norwegian cruise ship. Or, take your dream sports vacation, complete with two tickets to the NFL, MLB, MBA, NHL or NASCAR event of your choice.

Check out our Web site for the complete list of prize packages, and ask your Comfort Supply sales rep to explain the program's rules.

It's getting cold and dark outside, what better time to plan your summer 2011 vacation. Bahamas anyone?

Services Contracts Can Keep Business Moving During Slow Months

2010-11-09T12:02:00.005-06:00

The pace of business slows for HVAC contractors during the milder months of the fall, and in moderate climates like Middle Tennessee’s this can make for a couple of seemingly long months.

By offering service contracts, HVAC contractor customers can keep business coming in during the slower times of the year. If a customer has set up a service contract, they can schedule routine maintenance during the slow fall months and keep their crews busy.

Usually service contracts include priority treatment for customers and a discount for the homeowner when a repair needs to be done.

The homeowner benefits from having a clean, energy efficient HVAC system, and the contractor benefits from the steady income.

The best way to sell a service contract is to be honest – tell the homeowner that preventative maintenance cuts down on repair costs and can reduce their utility bills. Mention to them the full cost of repairs for a list of HVAC replacement parts if they were not covered by a service contract when the repairs needed to be done.

Help the Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation this Saturday

2010-10-22T16:35:00.000-05:00

It is next to impossible to find someone whose life has not been somehow impacted by cancer. The Minnie Pearl Foundation, a non-profit headquartered in Nashville, aims to educate all adults on cancer prevention and serve as a resource for education, treatment and support. The work that they do there is truly inspiring. You can find more about the foundation here: www.minniepearl.org

Please help us to support the important work that they do:

Car Wash to Benefit the Minnie Pearl Cancer Foundation

Saturday, October 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Hughes Supply Incorporated
1460 Ashland City Rd
Clarksville, TN
(931) 645-2539

100% of the proceeds from our car wash will be donated to the Minnie Pearl Foundation. Please come out and show your support in Clarksville this Saturday.

Ruud Protection Plus Discounts

2010-10-13T09:27:00.002-05:00

Ruud offers discounts of at least 25% on Protection Plus ESAs on systems installed during 2010. Visit https://www.protectionplusonline.com/ or call 877-276-4294 for details.

Instant Tax Credit Rebates

2010-09-29T13:46:00.002-05:00

From Oct. 1 through the end of the year, contractors who buy selected Ruud systems will receive an instant rebate of up to $250. See your local Comfort Supply store for details.

How To Make Women Uncomfortable During A Service Call

2010-09-15T09:17:00.003-05:00

More often than not, when a tech answers a service call, it will be a woman on the other side of the door. It is likely that the woman of the house will be responsible for household decisions and so you need to be prepared. Want to ensure that you’ll never hear from that customer again? Here are some tips for making women uncomfortable in their own homes.

DON’T identify yourself right away. I mean, the name of the company is on the truck, right? You’ve got a clipboard, what else do you need?

Of course handing her a business card and introducing yourself will put everyone at ease and let her know who will be in her house… but that’s not your problem, right?

DON’T be respectful. You’re the professional. She’s just a customer. She needs you way more than the other way around. Talk down to her. Let her know who’s really in charge and you’ll never have to come back there again.

Making eye contact, being polite and showing concern for the problem will only lead to repeat business and referrals. Who wants that?

DO use the hard sell. There is nothing quite like intimidation, double talk and pushing a customer to buy something that they don’t think they really need

And there’s nothing like it for killing repeat business, referrals and your professional reputation.

DO be dismissive of her input. She made the call to get you out here. Her job is done. Now step aside and let a professional tell her what the problem is.

She’s been living with this problem and her insights will make it easier to diagnose. Listening and asking questions will increase your understanding and make the fix go more quickly. But if you wanted an easy job, you wouldn’t have gotten into the HVAC business.

DON’T finish the job quickly and move on. Nothing will make her more uncomfortable than you sitting in your truck in front of her house waiting on your next service call. Hey, everyone needs a break.

Hanging around after the job is done will undermine her confidence in the work you did. Is he really done? Is there something wrong? Why is he still here? Having a stranger in your home creates stress. Having a stranger hanging out in front of your house can turn stress into anxiety.

DO burn your bridges. What do you care if you never see this person again? You’ve got your check and another service call to get to.

Cleaning up your mess, explaining to her what you did, demonstrating that the work is complete and thanking her for calling you? That’s for people looking for repeat business. You’re company is big enough already, right?

HARDI Launches www.savehvacjobs.com

2010-09-13T12:53:00.002-05:00

I received this message from the Heating Airconditioning Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI)

HARDI has created and launched a new website for the entire HVAC industry focused exclusively on securing an extension of the $1,500 25c residential tax credits before they expire at the end of this year. Below is the press release issued this evening about www.savehvacjobs.com . The website provides an easy-to-use tool for sending letters to your elected officials urging an extension of the tax credits, and HVAC companies are invited to show their support for extension by adding their company name or logo to the page. Soon you'll also be able to add testimonials of how the tax credits have helped your business employ or keep employed HVAC professionals. HARDI distributors are urged and encouraged to do the following as soon as possible to help lead the effort in getting these tax credits extended:

Go to www.savehvacjobs.com and use the simple tool to send letters to your representatives
Forward the website to your entire company so every employee is sending letters too
Forward the website to all contractor customers encouraging them to sign on and send letters
Forward the website to all vendors encouraging them to sign on and send letters
Promote and link to the website on your own company websites
Set weekly reminders to employees, customers, and vendors to send more letters

Industry-wide and national grassroots pressure will be the only way our industry has a chance of getting these tax credits extended before they expire. Use, promote, and re-use, and re-promote the website until we've gotten our extension!

For Immediate Release:
September 9, 2010
Contact: Talbot Gee
(614) 345-4328
tgee@hardinet.org

HARDI Launches Industry-Wide, National Effort to Extend $1,500 Tax Credits

Columbus, OH- Heating, Airconditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) launched today a new website, www.savehvacjobs.com. The new site is for the entire HVAC industry to use to promote and facilitate an nation-wide grassroots movement to extend the expiring 25c, $1,500 residential tax credits for the installation of high efficiency HVAC systems. From this new website, HVAC contractors, distributors, manufacturers, manufacturer representatives, and service providers can quickly and easily personalize a pre-drafted letter or compose their own letter to their federal legislators urging the immediate extension of these important tax credits before they expire at the end of 2010.

HVAC businesses can also send their company name or logo to join@savehvacjobs.com to show their support for 25c extension. “Our goal is to have a page with so many HVAC company names and logos on it that the page appears to scroll forever,” said HARDI’s Executive Vice President & COO, Donald Frendberg. “The idea started with Riley Sales, a distributor member outside Philadelphia, PA, who had created an online petition for their employees and contractor customers to sign and send to their representatives calling for a tax credit extension. It was such a fantastic idea that we asked if we should do something similar on a national level.”

HARDI is encouraging all of its over 400 U.S. distributor member companies to show their support on the site and more importantly to urge all of their thousands contractor customers to use the site several times a week until their representatives get these tax credits extended. “We know from many testimonials which we’ll start to post on this new website soon that many HVAC distributor jobs were in fact saved or created by the sales boost this tax credit provided,” stated HARDI Vice President, Talbot Gee. “We can only imagine the positive employment impact the tax credits have had on the tens of thousands of professional contractors out there, and of course the manufacturers of the qualifying equipment. We hope this provides the industry with a central portal for companies of all types to come together and speak as one massive and loud unified voice until we get these tax credits extended.”

HARDI has repeatedly expressed serious concerns of a regression in 2011 of the modest recovery experienced so far in 2010 if the $1,500 tax credits are not extended before they expire this December. “New units still aren’t flying off the shelf like we hoped despite the heat and the tax credits this year, but the mix of high-efficiency units being installed is keeping a lot of HVAC businesses going these days,” said Gee. “I don’t want to think about a 2011 without the benefit of these tax credits so we’re urging every HVAC business to do everything they can in the next three months to help us get these tax credits extended.”

The Heating, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) represents more than 400 wholesale companies, more than 300 manufacturing associates and nearly 140 manufacturer representatives. HARDI members represent an estimated 85 percent of the dollar value of the HVACR products sold through distribution. # # #

The Blevins East Nashville Tomato 5K

2010-08-17T10:05:00.003-05:00

Blevins Inc. and Comfort Supply recently sponsored the Blevins East Nashville Tomato 5K in support of the Tomato Arts Festival, the Margaret Maddox YWCA and Y-Cap. Blevins has called East Nashville home for nearly 40 years and we've seen this event grow from a small gathering supporting the local arts community into a major event.

We want to thank everyone who participated and look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Word-of-Mouth Campaigns: There’s more to it than asking for a referral

2010-08-13T12:56:00.002-05:00

If you’ve spent any amount of time in the HVAC industry, then you know that there is a lot of competition out there for customers. Successful companies are the ones who build solid relationships with their customers and therefore get, not only repeat business, but also referrals to neighbors and friends.

There is nothing in the world as effective at building your business than having customers recommend you to people they know. Word-of-mouth is king. But there is more to it than just asking your customers to recommend you to their friends. Here are some tips on establishing a word-of-mouth campaign.

Earn it.
First and foremost, you should earn that referral. That means providing stellar service: being on time for appointments, resolving issues quickly and communicating effectively with your customer.

What’s in it for me?
There is an old saying in marketing: A customer who has a good experience may tell one person, but a customer who has a bad one will tell a dozen. You can reverse that axiom by providing incentives to your customers for referrals. Maybe it’s cash, movie tickets or a discount on an upcoming service call. If you give your customers a reason to tell their friends about your business, you’ll see better results.

It’s not just words
To truly implement a word-of-mouth campaign, you’ll need a way to track referrals back to their source. For example, if your business card has a place for your customer to sign his name before passing it along to a friend, you can easily figure out whom to thank for the extra business.

Follow up
No matter what incentive you use to get your customers talking about your business, you can extend that good feeling with a simple follow up. Let your referring customers know you appreciate their efforts – a phone call or a card will give them an extra push to keep the word-of-mouth going.

Important Technical Notice

2010-07-22T10:39:00.006-05:00

Comfort Supply received communication from Ruud about a technical issue involving “N” coils with “C” TEV. Ruud has received reports that some of these valves are sticking in the open position and as a result, will be replacing the defective parts in our inventory. For those who have already installed a defective TEV, Ruud has implemented a $300 labor/material allowance for replacing them within the first year. The affected TEVs are any “N-design” indoor R-410A coil with the letter C as the 12^th character in the part number. Example: RCFL-HM4824CC.

We at Comfort Supply apologize for any problems associated with this quality issue and would like to offer these special promotions for our customers to thank you for your continued loyalty.

Also, Comfort Supply will host a free Samsung product training class, 8-11 a.m., August 25th at the Lane Motor Museum, 702 Murfreesboro Pike, in Nashville. Please call Crissy at 244-0920 to reserve your spot.

Another Finance Option

2010-06-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let everyone know about another financing option available for contractors. It’s called the Wells Fargo Home Projects Visa Program. Here is what it takes to qualify:

Your company must:

Have $1 million in sales.
Have been in business for at least two years.
Have experience selling financing solutions.
Agree to send $100,000 in business to Wells Fargo in the first year.

You can get details by calling 1 (800) 694-0259 and speaking to a representative.

New Construction Starting Soon

2010-06-17T08:14:00.004-05:00

The Nashville Business Journal published a story announcing that Metro has issued 2,100 permits for the rebuilding of homes damaged in the recent flooding. This means more business for contractors, which is great.

However, contractors looking to pick up some new business, should take care not to get overexposed financially.

Contractors: Beware When Replacing Flooded HVAC Units

2010-06-03T11:29:00.002-05:00

Take steps to protect yourself and your business when dealing with flood recovery.

HVAC contractors are seeing an up tick in business as homeowners look to repair or replace flood-damaged HVAC units. However, contractors should take special care not to get overexposed financially during this phase of recovery.

We’ve heard from contractors who installed a new HVAC system on the promise of an insurance settlement that never appeared, or they started an installation on a house only to find out it was going to be razed. These are just a couple of examples of how HVAC contractors may not get paid when dealing with flood recovery situations.

Contractors should work on a “payment-on-delivery” basis for the immediate future in order to protect themselves from fraud or misinformation.

Everyone is scrambling to take care of more business during the recovery. As a result, contactors may compromise with a homeowner on payment terms in order to get the job, but it is also easy to get stuck with a bill if there is something wrong with the insurance settlement. Unless you personally know and trust who you are dealing with, your best bet is payment up front.

We also recommend checking with the local code inspectors to see if homes in the area are scheduled for demolition or if the homeowner has had an inspection of the property.

Occasionally a homeowner may find out that it will cost too much to bring an older property up to code or that the damage is too extensive to rebuild. You don’t want to be in the middle of installing a new unit on a house that’s going to be razed in a few weeks.

Flooded HVACs

2010-05-21T08:30:00.002-05:00

WKRN, the local ABC affiliate, ran a segment last night on the importance of replacing flood-damaged HVAC units. The reporter interviewed Comfort Supply customer Eloy Saban of Temp Control LLC.

Check it out.

Open House Week

2010-05-20T08:30:00.006-05:00

Last week we held open houses at all four Comfort Supply locations. It was good to see everyone and we plan on continuing this tradition. The week of open houses culminated in a mini trade show at our Nashville home office. We invited our customers to come have lunch and meet with reps from our vendors and suppliers.

Below are photos from the event.

Regina King, J.J. King and Bruce King of King Heating & Air

Charles Lampley, Air Comfort; Wayne Dube, Comfort Supply; David Blunkall, Air Comfort

Susan and Terry Lackey, Terry’s HVAC Services; Clay Blevins, Comfort Supply

John Mastin, Inman Sales & Marketing; Billy Jobe, Comfort Supply;
Ed Burkhart, Mueller Industries

Brett Merrick, Coleman Russell; Jim Lestorick, Greyflex; Ogden Ratliff, Comfort Supply

Flooding Basements Can Mean Future HVAC Troubles

2010-05-07T08:54:00.003-05:00

As Middle Tennessee experiences the highest floodwater in recent memory, washed out homeowners have a lot to deal with. The approaching summer will mean a very hot recovery and unfortunately, a flooded basement usually means a flooded HVAC unit.

If a unit was submerged, it is likely destroyed. The electric components will have been ruined, so it will have to be replaced. Homeowners should take some precautions before leaving the property, such as turning off power and gas to the unit.

Once the floodwaters recede, an HVAC technician will need to inspect the unit to confirm the damage so the insurance company can make a final determination..

Currently, the federal government is offering a $1500.00 rebate to homeowners who replace their HVAC units with high efficiency systems. This program was recently extended through December of 2010.

Between a homeowner's insurance settlement, the federal rebate and consumer promotions such as the Ruud Consumer Rebate program, this is an opportune time to be replacing an HVAC unit. Also, you'll need a service technician to inspect ductwork as well. If the unit has been submerged, you most likely will have water and muck in the ducts which will have to be cleaned or replaced

RUUD'S OFFICIAL FLOOD PUBLIC STATEMENT FLOOD DAMAGED HVAC EQUIPMENT

(INDOOR or OUTDOOR)

Ruud Air Conditioning Division is cautioning residents of the areas impacted by recent flooding to promptly call a trained, professional contractor to inspect all heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment before resuming operation.

Flooding or partial to full submersion of HVAC equipment can damage safety features within the unit and the controls. Consumers, whose units may have been subjected to flooding , are advised to immediately contact a trained professional service contractor to assess the equipment. The Ruud Air Conditioning Division recommends that any HVAC equipment subjected to flooding be replaced and scrapped to avoid any risk of injury or harm.

PLEASE NOTE: IMMERSION BY FLOOD WATER COMPROMISES THE OPERATIONAL COMPONENTS OF HVAC PRODUCTS AND WILL VOID WARRANTY ON SUCH PRODUCTS.

Comfort Supply looks forward to partnering with our contractors to repair Middle Tennessee. As your business helps restore our area, Comfort Supply will be here for your expanding needs. This horrific flood invaded during a stressful economic period. Homeowners now suffer the added expenses of major renovations. During this challenging time, Comfort Supply suggests collecting payment at the time you provide the service. Doing this obviously protects you. It also prevents the homeowner from acquiring debt and encourages them to prioritize the most important repairs. We wish you the best and thank you for working to rebuild our community.

Finance Promotion For Dealers

2010-04-30T14:21:00.000-05:00

We just got word about a summer promotion from Kwik Comfort Financing and GE Money. Fund a sale between May 1 and June 30 using financed over six months with deferred interest and the dealer fee will be reduced from 5 to 2.75 percent.

You can call Merchant Service at 800-330-5189 for details.

Become a Comfort Supply Green Contractor

2010-04-23T13:52:00.002-05:00

This week Supply House Times posted a story about Comfort Supply's new Green Contractor recognition program. We've started a program where contractors can earn points for earth-friendly practices both on the job site and in their shops. Those who are certified will receive a decal for their trucks, patches for their uniforms and will be listed on our website, blog and Facebook page.

Check Out These Promotions!

2010-04-23T08:38:00.009-05:00

We have a lot of great promotions coming up at Comfort Supply . . .

First, Comfort Supply has issued its first catalog. You can download a PDF of it here. It contains selected products from our full line and should make it easier for our customers to find the parts they need. We’re sending them out to our customers now, so look for them in the mail soon.

Second, The Ruud Consumer Rebate will run between now and Nov. 15. Purchase any Ruud qualifying equipment and receive a cash rebate of up to $1,000. Contact your salesman for details.

Third, between now and the end of May (while supplies last), if you buy three Black Max Coil cleaners, you’ll get a fourth free.

Fourth, beginning in May, we’ll be running a Samsung Mini Split promotion. For every qualifying Samsung Mini Split you buy from our stock between May 1 and July 31, you will receive your choice of a $50 gift card from either Wal-Mart or Bass Pro Shops. Ask your salesman for details.

In other industry news, I recently saw where HVACBusiness Magazine has started a new service for HVAC contractors called SocialTract.com. This is a social networking content service. That means if you join, Social Tract will set up a personalized blog and accounts on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. They blog for you and use the other sites to drive readers to the blog. It’s a little pricy at $500 a month, but to learn more click here.

New Store Opening In Clarksville

2010-04-07T12:00:00.003-05:00

Comfort Supply is opening a fourth location in Clarksville. The new warehouse/showroom at 1460 New Ashland City Road will be open for business on April 12. This will be our fourth location: Nashville, Murfreesboro, Cookeville and Clarksville.

The 8,000-square-foot Clarksville location will offer everything that residential and commercial contractors need to install and service HVAC equipment. We will host an open house for contractors at the new location on Wednesday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Clarksville is a particularly good location for Comfort Supply because the residential construction industry has fared much better here than in most other Tennessee cities during the economic downturn,” said Jimmy Shelton, sales consultant for the new store. “We see a great potential for growth in this market.”

In November of last year, CNNMoney.com ranked Clarksville fourth in the nation in terms of mid-sized cities in which to start up a new business. The article cited an influx of manufacturing jobs, including the new Hemlock Semiconductor plant, which is expected to employ up to 800 people.

We have been wanting to expand to Clarksville for a some time now, and we look forward to working with the contractors in the community and being a part of this great city.

Like Clarksville, Comfort Supply has grown at a rapid rate in recent years, expanding from one location to four within fours years. We opened the Murfreesboro store in 2006 and the Cookeville location in 2008. The company’s revenue has grown at an annual rate of approximately 15 percent for the past four years.

We are grateful to have experienced success during these challenging times. People will choose to do business with you, we believe, if you provide great service and an outstanding product at a fair price. This is what we have built our business on, and we look forward to bringing the same customer-focused approach to our Clarksville store.

Comfort Supply Offers North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification

2010-03-12T16:32:00.000-06:00

As you know, buying a new HVAC system is a major decision for any homeowner. Ensuring that you have a qualified professional contractor can help alleviate any misgivings when it comes to closing the deal.

The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) program is a non-profit organization that certifies the only testing that is accepted by the entire HVAC industry. Having your NATE certification means something not just to you, but your customers.

Comfort Supply can help you and your crew get NATE certified. You can take your tests at our Nashville location by calling Crissy Bond at (615) 244-0920 to schedule your NATE certification or recertification testing.

We can test on every certification NATE offers. You can download free training materials from their web site (www.natex.org). An NATE certification means peace of mind for your customers and demonstrates that you are a professional, educated and qualified technician.

Announcing the Comfort Supply/Standex Giveaway

2010-03-04T12:28:00.000-06:00

Comfort Supply has teamed up with Standex, maker of air distribution products, to give valuable prizes to our customers, based on the increase in sales of Standex products between March and June.

We have three levels of prizes to give away based on sales volume increase over 2009 purchases of Standex products.

Increase sales by $2,000 and receive a digital camera.
Increase sales by $3,000 and get a Blu-Ray DVD player.
Increase sales by $4,000 and win a GPS system

You can contact your Comfort Supply sales consultant to find out your sales target and good luck.

Telephone Issues

2010-02-19T08:34:00.002-06:00

To Our Valued Customers:

At Comfort Supply, we pride ourselves in being there for our customers. Recently. we changed over to a new phone system and this has resulted sporadic phone service in some of our offices. We apologize for this inconveniences this has caused some of you as we've worked through these issues.

In the future, should you find it difficult to contact us, we suggest you contact your sales consultant directly. Below, is a list of our sales consultants and their cell phone numbers.

Again, we apologize for the inconvenience and we look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your business,

Clay Blevins, CEO

Comfort Supply

Sales Consultants:

David Butler: cell 615-456-0810

JJ King: cell 615-519-9334

Wayne Dube: cell 615-445-0810

Rob Kulpa (Cookeville and East TN area) cell: 931-858-2945

R 22 Freon Pre Season Sale

2010-01-22T08:18:00.005-06:00

R 22 FREON PRE SEASON SALE

ENDS MARCH 31ST, 2010

1 TO 4 CYLINDERS R2230 FREON 30 LBS. $ 187.00 EACH

5 TO 19 CYLINDERS R2230 FREON 30 LBS. $ 171.00 EACH

20 TO 39 CYLINDERS R2230 FREON 30 LBS. $ 155.00 EACH

40 TO 59 CYLINDERS R2230 FREON 30 LBS. $ 149.00 EACH

60 + CYLINDERS R2230 FREON 30 LBS. $ 141.00 EACH

MUST ACCEPT DELIVERY BY APRIL 9TH

Comfort Supply

305 Arlington Avenue

Nashville, TN 37210

615-244-0920

615-242-8444 fax

Comfort Supply Training Schedule

2010-01-22T08:00:00.004-06:00

Comfort Supply will be offering several training classes throughout 2010. From GeoExcel to RUUD Split Systems. Dates, locations and fees may vary. Please see below for the full list of classes. For any quesitons you may have or to make a reservation contact Crissy at Comfort Supply 615-244-0920.

Feb. 9 & 10 GeoExcel

Feb. 12 EO Institute Planning for Profits

Mar 17 Fieldpiece

Mar 24 Honeywell Commercial Controls

Mar 30 Design Star

Apr 7 Honeywell

Apr 28 RUUD Duel Fuel Systems

May TVA Programs

July 21 RUUD Commercial Products

Sept 9 & 10 GeoExcel

Sept 15 Fieldpiece

Sept 22 New RUUD Products

Oct 13 Design Star

Oct 20 RUUD Split Systems

Nov10 Honeywell

Building Better Budgets

2009-12-01T13:55:00.008-06:00

Over the next few months, Comfort Supply will be running a series of articles on the subject of "Open Book Management (OBM)." With Open Book Management, every employee learns to understand the company's financials along with the other numbers that are critical to tracking the business's performance.

Click on this link to read an article from the HVAC news featuring Comfort Supply and O.B.M.

http://www.achrnews.com/Articles/Feature_Article/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000164652

O.B.M. is something that is very important to Comfort Supply, because this is how we run our company. It has helped us be more successful, and we wholeheartedly endorse it for any company.

This is our budgeting season, which is a high-involvement planning process. Employees who have responsibility for various items on the financial statements participate in this process. Here are some tips for budgeting.

1. Build a true cost system. A true standard cost system reflects what you should be spending on specific items, and not simply what you shelled out for them last year. It's a critical budgeting step, and here's why: If you've been operating inefficiently by spending too much money, and this year you create a budget using last year's inflated cost, then you're simply flooding your system with more inefficient. Instead, you analyze every product or service.

2. Adopt a cost-conscious mentality. Every month, mangers at Critz Inc., an auto dealership, review composite financials published by the company's trade association. This discipline, practiced over time, has made budgeting easier and more accurate. Every year, managers make firm commitments to advertising, personnel, training and inventory. "If we plan to sell 70 cars a month , we'll need 130 in stock. So we factor in those opportunity costs, " explains president Dale Critz, Jr.

3. Avoid excessive detail at the outset. When beginning the budgeting process. Focus first on the high-impact expenses, the ones that matter most to company profitability. For many of our coaching clients, the Pareto wisdom prevails: 80% of their issues are found in 20% of their line items. However, once you get into the budgeting groove, you can and should sweat the small stuff.

4. Break down expenses into useful, controllable items. Allocating more expenses to departments generally encourages autonomy. Make sure employee salaries and expenses land in the right departmental budget, and show people how those numbers vary. If you run a sales organization, keep an eye on travel, entertainment and selling expenses. If run a consulting firm, dig into those billable hours. You want to develop a simple , descriptive income statement that helps employees immediately understand the effects of what they do every day.

5. Use "other " line items strategically. "We're in the service business," says the owner of an open book health club.' If a member get a flat tire in the parking lot, I don't want to hurt any one's budget." The solution: A staffer fills in a "member give back" form which a special payout will be warranted, and the cost comes out of a particular budget line. Also, before you lump together small expenses, have a good feel for the historical trends of the individual items.

6. Build the budget collaboratively-and commit to it. In October, teams receive a refined sales forecast, and they spend six weeks filling in expenses. They consider industry norms, planned price changes and all the "what-ifs". They set reasonable expense targets and plug them into a spreadsheet to see what they look like. From there, it's refine, refine, refine. Once teams have cost projections they can live with for the next twelve months, they commit to them by signing their budgets.

7. Develop an easy-to-understand P&L. Southwest Airlines pioneered it, and many other open book companies have adopted it: the simple, illustrated, single page (doubled-sided) P&L handout that summarizes in everyday language what each line refers to. It provides employees. especially new ones, with a cheat sheet explaining items they may not fully understand. Preparing the handout (and a scoreboard) takes an afternoon, tops. Why not do the same with your balance sheet and cash flow statement.

Updated and Additional Tax Credit Offerings

2009-12-01T13:32:00.007-06:00

UPDATED and ADDITIONAL TAX CREDIT OFFERINGS

Gas Furnaces

Ruud is pleased to announce an update to the Tax Credit forms for gas furnaces that qualify for the "Advanced Main Air Circulating Fan" credit. After reviewing the costs associated with these models it was determined that they qualify for a tax credit up to 11.1% of the installed cost of the furnace, not to exceed $1500.00. The specific percentage for each qualifying model is listed on the Tax Credit forms available at http://www.ruud.com/ Each model is different and it is important to visit this site to verify the correct percentage.

Systems

Ruud is also pleased to announce additional Tax Credit qualified condensing unit systems. Our 14AJM and UAPM models are now qualified through 4 tons with select gas furnaces and air handlers. Please see the Tax Credit forms available at http://www.ruud.com/ for specific combinations that are qualified for these credits.

Ruud sign from the past

2009-09-03T08:36:00.003-05:00

Ruud has changed their logo several times. We think this one was from the seventies. This sign was seen at Gilliams AC in Centerville, TN

It's Never TOO Late

2009-07-30T09:02:00.004-05:00

Have You Heard? RUUD National Consumer Rebate Program Extended until November 30th, 2009. Fall Blackout Dates Suspended !!

GeoExcel incentives and credits make geothermal systems even more affordable. In some areas, your local utility company may offer rebates or other incentives. Some states and federal governments offer newly legislated tax incentives.

Coming Soon!! ! R-22 Reclaim

Did you know? Comfort Supply is a NATE testing center. You may take your

Certification or Re-certification at Comfort. Must be scheduled two weeks

in advance. Fees do apply.

SALES !!! SALES !!! SALES!!!! Buy any Samsung Mini Split and receive a

$50.00 gift card from Bass Pro Shop or Walmart, your choice. Samsung

must be stock item.

Honeywell Thermostats and Accessories on sale.

Spend $100.00 or more per order and receive a bottle of red coil cleaner free. Limit 4 per

customer and 1 order transaction. Please mention ad when ordering.

PLEASE contact Comfort Supply or your Salesman for more information.

GEO EXCEL

2009-07-15T15:53:00.003-05:00

Comfort Supply recently had a training / information class on GEO EXCEL. Over 35 customers and vendors attended. There are many incentives and credits that make geothermal systems more affordable. Many local, state and federal incentives are available for geothermal heat pump installation. RESIDENTIAL MAXIMUM CREDIT is one time of 30 % of installation cost, with no maximum. QUALIFYING SYSTEMS include closed or open loop geothermal heat pumps. Must meet or exceed Enerystar requirements and be installed after Dec. 31, 2007. TIME FRAME, this credit is available until Dec. 31, 2016. COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS there is a 10 % tax credit, with no maximum available for commercial installations. There are many other incentives in place for commercial installations, depending on location, and type of system.

PLEASE CHECK http://www.dsireusa.org/ for information pertaining to your state, or http://thomas.loc.gov/

Comfort Supply can assist you with all of your GEO THERMAL needs.

June & July update

2009-06-25T11:35:00.004-05:00

We will be closed friday and saturday of next week (7/3 &7/4)

RHEEM / RUUD Rated in the top 2 spots in a recent survey by Consumer Reports. A poll of over 32,000 readers was done, and survey results shown that Rheem and RUUD were less likely to breakdown and need costly repairs when compared to other brands. For full article please visit www.consumerreports.com

Thanks to our customers and vendors "YEE - HAW" day was a great success. Over 300 guests attended our open house, enjoying food, fun, door prizes, and a 2 day sale. Hope to see more of "YALL" next year !!

WHAT'S ON SALE...Scratch and Dent ITEMS, and R-22 Clearance, which includes Split GAS 80% R-22 and Split Heat Pump R-22 (heater kits sold seperately). Free Walmart or Bass Pro Shop Gift Card your choice, with any Samsung Mini Split(must be stock item, while supplies last, this offer good through July 31, 2009). Call us for more details.

GO GREEN...COMFORT SUPPLY will hold a GEO Thermal Training Seminar on July 9, 2009 from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Lunch will be provided, and location to be determinded. Please call 615-244-0920 to reserve your spot.

Looking for someone to do commercial take-offs

2009-04-24T10:51:00.002-05:00

We are looking for someone to do commercial take-offs, pricing and bids. If you know of anyone, please have them call me at 615-244-0921.

RUUD Dealer Meeting

2009-04-21T14:28:00.004-05:00

Comfort Supply held a dealer meeting at the Lane Motor Museum on April 21, 2009.

Tax Credits, New Products, and

Consumer Rebates were the topics covered by Mr. Bill Tillman, RUUD representative.

Governor Signs executive order requiring more energy efficient equipment

2009-04-06T15:14:00.001-05:00

Governor Signs executive order requiring more energy efficient equipment

News Archives

Gov. Bredesen signs Executive Order #59 requiring energy efficient equipment in state government.

Governor Phil Bredesen today signed Executive Order #59 requiring use of efficient Energy Star qualified equipment and appliances in all executive branch state agencies. Energy Star is a widely accepted labeling program jointly operated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. The program is designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The directive is an initial result of recommendations from the Governor’s Task Force on Energy Policy, which met today for the final time this year. Additional executive orders and legislation are expected as state government improves efforts to “lead by example” in the areas of energy efficiency and conservation. “Energy Star is a widely recognized brand name that translates to immediate energy savings and long-term benefits to the environment,” Bredesen said. “I’m proud to sign this order officially kicking off state government’s increased efforts to lead by example in energy efficiency and conservation.”

At least 20 states have taken similar steps, according to the National Governors Association. Among other steps, Bredesen’s latest executive order requires:

· All future office equipment, appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling products and systems purchased by and for executive branch state agencies shall be Energy Star qualified, provided that such Energy Star qualified products and systems are commercially available; and

· Purchasing contracts that do not provide as options Energy Star qualified office equipment, appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling products and systems shall not be renewed upon expiration. Subsequent contracts shall provide as options Energy Star qualified office equipment, appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling products and systems.

The Governor’s Task Force on Energy Policy is a 17-member panel that includes key state officials as well as representatives of business, environmental and other interests. The group is charged with making recommendations to help Tennessee become a leader in energy efficiency and conservation, development of clean-energy technology, and use of alternative fuels and renewable energy sources.

More information is available online at www.energystar.gov and www.tn.gov/energy.

CONSUMER TAX INCENTIVE

2009-03-31T13:26:00.006-05:00

Purchasers of highly efficient heating, cooling. and water heating equipment can take tax credits of 30% of installed cost for purchasing qualifying equipment. These credits are available for systems placed in service from January 1 , 2009 through December 31, 2010. There is a $1500.00 cap on the credit per home, including the amount received for insulation, windows, air and duct sealing. Let Comfort Supply save you money on your HVAC & Water Heater equipment. (Restrictions Do Apply)

YEE - HAW DAY

2009-03-31T11:44:00.007-05:00

Comfort Supply will be holding an Open House ( YEE - HAW DAY) on May 29th, 2009 for customers and vendors. 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. We will have one day "in house Specials", mechanical bull riding, food, and other activities. Donations will also be made to The United Way. All vendors who wish to have a table please contact Luan or Crissy for table reservations and fees.

Comfort Supply

305 Arlington Avenue

Nashville, TN 37210

615-244-0920

615-242-8444 fax

Victory for Comfort Supply and Community

2009-03-10T14:06:00.003-05:00

The Zoning Appeals Board rejected the special exception request that would have brought a Greyhound bus station to Murfreesboro Rd. The 4-0 vote came after BZA members cited over crime and Greyhound's poor efforts to work with the neighborhood.

For full article please visit
http://www.nashvillecitypaper.com/news.php?viewStory=66601

closing for inventory

2009-01-26T14:05:00.001-06:00

Comfort Supply will be closed this friday (1-29-2009) and saturday (1-30-2009) for inventory

December Video Dealer Update

2008-12-09T11:00:00.001-06:00

check out our latest video update at:

Economic update, fuel surcharges, and specials

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLw8xNMDWqI

What's Home Depot Supply Up to?

2008-09-19T16:06:00.001-05:00

check out this article from Supply House times. It is with the people leading Home Depot Supply

cut and paste this link into your browswer

http://www.supplyht.com/Articles/Feature_Article/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000418549

Down and Dirty ICP parts special----WOW!!!!

2008-09-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

All ICP Thermostats $20.00
Dual Capacitors $5.00
Evap Coils $150.00
Expansion Valves $20.00
Heat Exchangers $175.00
Limit Switches $2.00
OEM Motors $75.00
Pressure Switches $5.00
Relay $3.00
Sequencers $5.00
Single Capacitors $2.50
Universal Fast Blower & Cond Motors $25.00
Variable Speed Motors $100.00

Where to find all of our videos

2008-08-26T19:08:00.003-05:00

go to our 'you tube' channel to see all of our videos. all of the comfort supply archived videos can be found at:

www.youtube.com/comfortsupply

Home Sales Probably Held Near Decade Low: U.S. Economy Preview

2008-08-24T14:43:00.001-05:00

Aug. 24 (Bloomberg) -- Home sales in the U.S. probably teetered near a 10-year low, property values dropped and consumer spending cooled, signaling the economy has taken another turn for the worse, reports this week may show.

The real-estate recession will persist into next year as stricter lending rules and higher borrowing costs shackle demand. At the same time, equity is disappearing as home prices fall, and wages aren't keeping up with inflation, depriving Americans of the means to maintain spending, the biggest part of the economy.

why are diesel prices so much higher than unleaded

2008-08-24T12:14:00.002-05:00

There must be some explanation. In our recent history, there hasn't been a time when diesel was so much more expensive than unleaded. Why has the markeplace changed so drastically.

I started looking into it, and I found what seems to be a rational explanation.

David Morris is the vice president of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, and an expert on energy said diesel prices are soaring.

"Diesel is what gets the goods to market; diesel is what runs the factories. Gasoline gets us to the store work. But basically the economy runs on diesel in the United States," said Morris.

He said just like with regular unleaded, worldwide demand is outpacing supply. However, overseas they use a lot more diesel than unleaded.

"Globally we're having an increased demand for diesel, faster than an increased demand for gasoline and that is stressing refineries," said Morris.

Plus the U.S. has a new environmental requirement to get the sulfur out of diesel.

"So most people think that that alone has increased the price of diesel anywhere from 15 to 20 cents a gallon," said Morris.

New winter hours

2008-08-20T12:32:00.003-05:00

Starting sept 15th, we will be open from 7-4. HVAC is such a seasonal business and the slowdown in Residential New Construction has made it even more seasonal. As a result, we have decided to shorten our hours this fall and winter.

August Training Class

2008-07-29T10:43:00.002-05:00

On Thursday, August 14th, we will be holding a training class on Thermostatic Expansion Valve Troubleshooting. The class will run from 8:30am-10:30am and will cover why the thermostatic expansion valve is used and how it operates. Valve construction, operation, installation, and diagnostic procedures are covered. This program is a must in the world of 13 plus SEER equipment.

The cost of the class is $50 and will cover all training materials and a light breakfast. This class is NATE accredited. Call 244-0920 to sign up!

Delivery Charge

2008-07-11T07:56:00.000-05:00

Diesel Fuel Prices have increased 55% in the first quarter of 2008, and are expected to continue to rise throughout the summer. As you might imagine, this unprecedented rise has had a dramatic effect on our company’s costs both in our own fuel expenses and in fuel surcharges added by our vendors. Over the past 6 months, we have not had a delivery charge.

Due to the changes in diesel fuel prices, it is necessary for us to add a charge effective July 28^th, 2008. At the current average of $4.72 on July 9^th (see www.transportlink.com for Department of Energy published weekly national averages), our delivery charge will be $12 per delivery. We will adjust our delivery charge at the beginning of each month based on this national average and will adjust either upward or downward depending on price changes. Delivery charges will be based on the following schedule.

Thank you for understanding. If you have any questions, please discuss with your local sales representative or branch contact.

Clay Blevins

Diesel Fuel Price	Delivery Charge
$3.24 or below	$8
$3.25-$3.74	$10
$3.75-$4.39	$12
$4.40-$4.74	$15
$4.75-$4.99	$17
$5.00 and above	$20

Softball Game Cancelled

2008-06-16T21:14:00.001-05:00

Unfortunately we are going to cancel the softball game. We will try again in September when it is a little bit cooler.

Now Stocking Ruud Tankless Water Heaters

2008-05-14T10:20:00.002-05:00

Comfort Supply is now stocking Ruud Tankless Water Heaters. Ruud water heaters have been installed in homes more than any other brand.

The popularity of oversize tubs is growing, and so the demand for large volumes of low-cost hot water. The Ruud Tankless provides a compact solution for a continuous supply of energy-efficient hot water that won't run out.
Ruud Tankless is about one-third of the size of a conventional water heater.
The digital display on the Ruud Tankless makes it simple to set the water temperature.
The EZ link cable connects two tankless units to operate as one.

For more information, visit rheemtankless.com or contact your sales representative.

Comfort Supply Softball Game/ Cook-out - June 21st

2008-04-30T08:30:00.002-05:00

We are planning an employee and customer softball game and grill out on June 21st. Please join us. details to follow. a request for a small donation may be asked as this event is being organized by one of our dealers.

Buy our Tempstar Parts at Discount

2008-04-30T08:28:00.003-05:00

we still have many, many tempstar parts that we would like to sell. buy one, buy a box, buy a pallot. we are are selling them at deep discounts. Even if you need a warranty a part, check with us. We can sell you a warranty part at cost and you can take it to another distributor to get credit for it.

Open House Scheduled

2008-04-29T11:29:00.005-05:00

Our open house has been scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2008 from 10:00am-2:00pm. We will be serving lunch and having a raffle for door prizes. Also, you can visit with our vendors and shop our clearance sale. There will also be a chance to dunk Comfort Supply employees in the dunk tank! All of the proceeds from the dunk tank will go to United Way.

So mark your calendars! We look forward to seeing everyone there!!

Why we changed to a new metal vendor

2008-04-28T08:58:00.001-05:00

Why we changed to a new metal vendor

You may have noticed that we changed our metal pipe vendor from Air Flow to Alco (Standex) metals.

We began to see many picking errors in the pipe department and one of the reasons we switched to alco is that they label the size on every piece. Pipe fittings are easily mixed up in the warehouse and a picker can grab the wrong size if it is not labeled. It got to a point where our warehouse crew had to measure some sizes with a tape measure to make sure they were giving you the right one.

We also believe that Alco is a product of very fine quality. We hope you thinks so as well.

Continuing with our efforts to provide you with the finest quality supplies that we can find.